National Trout Memorial – Kalkaska, Michigan - Atlas Obscura
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National Trout Memorial

Kalkaska, Michigan

This tremendous trout welcomes visitors to a northern Michigan town with a rich fishing history.  

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National Trout Memorial. rickbbiking (Atlas Obscura User)
National Trout Memorial. rickbbiking (Atlas Obscura User)
Another winter time view of the memorial. rickbbiking (Atlas Obscura User)
Hemmingway plack soxnd (Atlas Obscura User)
View from parking lot looking north soxnd (Atlas Obscura User)
With the fountain on soxnd (Atlas Obscura User)
View from parking lot looking north soxnd (Atlas Obscura User)
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An enormous trout greets travelers in Kalkaska, Michigan. For those folks who have traveled “Up North” for many years, especially since childhood, the memorial is an endearing and welcome sight, as well as reminder that you will soon be arriving at your vacation destination. 

The impressive National Trout Memorial (also known as the Fisherman’s Shrine) was dedicated on April 30, 1966. The brook trout depicted at the center of the memorial is approximately 17 to 18 feet long. The trout is surrounded by a fountain that operates in the warmer weather months and is lit at night.

The roadside memorial is situated in front of the Kalkaska Historical Museum (a former railroad depot) across US 131 from downtown Kalkaska. The northern village is proud of its trout fishing heritage. In addition to proudly displaying the National Trout Memorial, Kalkaska also hosts the National Trout Festival that takes place during the last week of April.

Know Before You Go

The giant trout is located directly adjacent to US 131 (on the east side of the road) in downtown Kalkaska. Parking is available at the adjacent historical museum.

giant animals fishing fish roadside attractions memorials
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